Mortise Locks

It is human nature to want a lock on the door to our homes. We are used to having locks on internal or external doors whether for practical reasons such as security or just the sheer beauty of an intricately designed ornamental door lock to make a statement at the entrance.

About Mortise Locks

Mortise locks have been in use for years to provide security for houses. Such locks can be seen on modern buildings all around Europe. There are three parts to a mortise lock. The lock body containing the handle is attached to the door. Unlike other door handles that are connected to the surface of the door, a mortise, also known as a recess, is carved in the door edge to install the lock body. The lock trim that is fixed to the door frame, which aligns the hole where the bolt fits, is the second part. The third part is the keyed cylinder which is the main part as it operates the lock body to lock and unlock the door.

How do Mortise Locks Work?

Mortise locks are not highly complicated contraptions. The mechanism that locks and unlocks the mortise lock is actually quite simple. It has to be very dependable because you would be using it every day for years to come.

Mortise locks work using either a sash lock or a deadlock. A sash lock includes a door handle which operates with a non-locking sprung latch. A deadlock is a less complex form that doesn’t have a handle or latch.

Mortise Locks Design

Mortise lock designs range from simple to quite complicated. This depends on the purpose for which it is being used. The size of the door, and whether the door is made of brass or of iron are factors that determine the design of a mortise lock.

The best mortise lock designs incorporate the characteristics of flexibility, functionality, and durability. Multiple finishing trims and lever options are available as well. Because of the wide variety of mortise locks which can be used for different kinds of applications, it can be difficult to make a decision on what lock to go for. This is where you need the services of a good locksmith. KC Worthing Locksmiths provide assistance with your lock needs from choosing a suitable lock to the installation.

What is the History of Mortise Locks?

The basic human need for security dates back to the beginning of time. It is not surprising that locks have existed for thousands of years. The first lock and key device recorded was discovered in Assyria. Like the present Yale lock, it employed a pin tumbler mechanism where the insertion of a key caused pins blocking movement to move out of the way. Mortise locks were around long before the days of mechanised woodworking.

How much do Mortise Locks Cost?

With a working knowledge of woodwork tools and techniques, a homeowner could offset the cost of getting mortise locks in a home with a little DIY. However, it is troublesome to install a mortise lock without a machine because the lock is fitted into a deep recess cut into the edge of a door.

Most installation specialists make use of a mortising jig to simplify the operation. Even though the jig makes it easier to cut precisely a pocket for the lock, installing the external trim could still prove difficult.

How Secure are Mortise Locks?

There are different varying standards of mortise locks that translate into their level of security.

There are older standards that are no longer in use, but replacement locks are being made for them. They include Norwegian standard (large), Norwegian standard (small), 22-series, Swedish standard (small), and Danish standard.

KC Worthing Locksmiths only use the best quality mortise locks to ensure your security. Your choice of mortise lock would depend on whether it is to be employed in an internal or external door. The professionals at KC Worthing Locksmiths could work out other important factors like the size of the backset or the length of the faceplate.